Paul P. Dureka, 87, of Raytown, Mo., passed away unexpectedly February 9, 2009, at home. Paul is survived by his wife of 62 years, Esther.
The youngest of nine children born to Hungarian immigrants Johann Gyuricza and Anna Mikulech in Blairsville, Pa., he is preceded in death by his seven brothers and a sister. A veteran of the US Army Air Corps in WWII, Paul repaired fighters and bombers in North Africa and Europe under harrowing conditions, contributing to the successful Allied invasion of Normandy. His mechanical abilities and
people skills launched his career as owner of Major Tractor and Equipment Co., 5429 Blue Parkway, Kansas City, MO, from 1955-1985. He served for years on the Raytown Parks Board and the Board of Laurel Bank. With wife, Esther, he traveled to many countries, including the Holy Land.
A member of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish since 1949, Paul served on the Church Finance Committee. He belonged to Knights of Columbus Chapter 4962, the Serra Club, and later became a Knight of the Holy Sepulcher. At Lourdes, he was Scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 283 for many years, and attended high-adventure training at Philmont Scout Reservation in New Mexico. An avid, lifelong outdoorsman, he kindled a love for the wild in hundreds of young people.
|